From coconut shell to coal: performance differences of activated carbon filter elements

In the activated carbon filter element market, the raw material competition between coconut shell activated carbon and coal-based activated carbon has never stopped. Although both are adsorption materials, the differences in raw material sources and processes have created completely different performance performances.

Raw material differences lay the foundation
Coconut shell activated carbon is made from natural coconut shells, which are made by high-temperature carbonization and activation. It has a developed pore structure and a high proportion of micropores, and has stronger adsorption capacity; coal-based activated carbon is made from coal, which has lower costs, but the pores are mainly mesopores and macropores, and the adsorption capacity is limited. This difference directly determines the difference between the two in purification efficiency.

Performance comparison shows the truth
Coconut shell activated carbon has a high specific surface area and rich micropores, and has a significant adsorption effect on small molecular pollutants (such as residual chlorine, odor, and organic matter), especially suitable for household water purification scenarios; although coal-based activated carbon is low in cost, it has a slow adsorption rate and is easily blocked by large molecular impurities, and is more suitable for large flow scenarios such as industrial waste gas treatment.

Application scenarios determine the choice
For home users who pursue efficient purification, coconut shell activated carbon filter is a better solution; while for industrial scenarios with limited budgets, coal-based activated carbon can balance cost and effect. It should be noted that inferior coal-based activated carbon may cause secondary pollution due to excessive ash content, so be cautious when purchasing.